At War with Time

Rating: Null/10 (25 June 2004)

*** Some Slight Spoilers***
The Legend of 1900 is a neglected pearl of a movie. Behind the sentimental exterior is concealed a profound statement, which is the trademark of Giuseppe Tornatore's style. Much like in Cinema Paradiso, the director's attention concentrates on the torments, tortures and dilemmas of change. In our culture the notions of "growing up" and "maturing" are treated not only as inevitable but also self-evidently positive. The story of 1900 is only marginally about the fear of entering and dealing with the uncertainties of the big scary world "out there" (Danny the sailor warns the little 1900 that the "sharks on land" are far more cruel and voracious than the ones swimming in the ocean). In my opinion, Tornatore dwells here with one of the deepest and painful problems of human life: how do you establish your own significance in the world filled with cold indifference? how do you know who and what you are? Everybody in the film tries to convince 1900 (masterfully and ironically played by Tim Roth) to take that fateful step and get off the ship in order to "BECOME SOMETHING." They all assume and believe that to be something, to gain significance, one must leave his "ship" and prove himself in the eyes of the "real world" -- the collection of powerful groups whose opinions and decisions are somehow more important that those of the small milieu of the one's parochial world. One's recognition, one's validation comes from some powerful forces "out there," on land. Frequent digressions about the fact that as far the "world was concerned," 1900 did not even exist. In his final monologue, 1900 himself admits with a touch of regret that the world had bypassed him. But, damn it, why do we all constantly have to care about what the "world" thinks of us, makes of us?? Why, in order to live "fulfilled" lives, do we seek "recognition"? Who are the judges? 1900 perhaps unconsciously fights against having to define himself in terms of what the "world" or "real life" make of him. He chooses anonymous death aboard the Virginia cruise ship. His death is as unknown as was his birth. The world did not know about his existence, his art, his personal agony. But 1900 never defined his worth, or the meaning of his life in terms of "public opinion" and vain glory. He left not a trace of his existence to this seemingly all-important world. All he left to us was his legend. And that's all that really mattered.
Overall, a wonderful film. Fantastic music. Excellent song at the end! Highly recommended for thinking and open-minded viewership.